It can make a lifesaving difference, states report
A national project has published its first three-year impact report, showcasing how peer support is a vital and life-changing element of suicide prevention in communities across Scotland.
Led by Scottish Recovery Network, the project is a core component of the Scottish Government and COSLA’s Creating Hope Together Suicide Prevention Strategy.
It works alongside people, organisations, and communities to embed peer support as an essential, accessible, and sustainable part of Scotland’s suicide prevention approach.
The new report, Creating Hope with Peer Support: 3 years of peer power in suicide prevention, was launched at Scottish Recovery Network’s national event in Stirling.
The launch was led by Tom Arthur, minister for Social Care and Mental Wellbeing and councillor Paul Kelly, COSLA spokesperson for Health and Social Care.
The publication brings together reflections, insights and real-life stories from participants, peer workers and partners involved in the project since its inception.
Reflecting on the importance of peer support to Scotland’s suicide prevention efforts, Tom Arthur said: “Peer support is vital in our efforts at suicide prevention in Scotland across all areas of policy. We not only want to ensure lived experiences are included in how we design our policy, but that those with lived experience who can provide that peer support can make not just a life-changing but a lifesaving difference.
“The Scottish government is committed to working in partnership with our communities and with local government to make peer support as accessible as possible.”
The report highlights case studies from organisations including Hope Point Dundee (Penumbra), Dundee Volunteer and Voluntary Action, Neil’s Hugs Foundation, The Hive Kirkcaldy, and Living Warriors Project. Themes include transforming crisis intervention, creating safe spaces for marginalised groups, and developing grassroots, community-rooted supports.
The event also premiered a new film, produced in collaboration with Suicide Prevention Scotland, The Hive Kirkcaldy, LATNEM and Men United, showing the powerful role of peer support in communities facing higher suicide risk.
